Travel Budget for Fraser Island Visit Fraser Island on a Budget or Travel in Style

Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia
Pacific / Australia / Queensland /
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Fraser Island is a breathtaking island known for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're relaxing on the beaches, hiking in nature, or taking in the beauty, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Fraser Island that stays within your budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Fraser Island?

You should plan to spend around $232 (AU$371) per day on your vacation in Fraser Island. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $79 (AU$126) on meals
  • $89 (AU$142) on local transportation
  • $195 (AU$313) on hotels

A one week trip to Fraser Island for two people costs, on average, $3,243 (AU$5,194). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $232
    AU$371
  • One Week Per person
    $1,621
    AU$2,597
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,243
    AU$5,194
  • One Month Per person
    $6,948
    AU$11,130
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,243
    AU$5,194
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $6,485
    AU$10,388
  • One Month For a couple
    $13,897
    AU$22,260
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Fraser Island cost?

A one week trip to Fraser Island usually costs around $1,621 (AU$2,597) for one person and $3,243 (AU$5,194) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Fraser Island on average costs around $3,243 (AU$5,194) for one person and $6,485 (AU$10,388) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Fraser Island will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Fraser Island on average costs around $6,948 (AU$11,130) for one person and $13,897 (AU$22,260) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Fraser Island expensive to visit?

Fraser Island is a charming destination that draws in visitors with an array of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary choices. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

You can find Fraser Island to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like enjoying the free hiking trails and spending long days at the beach can help you save money.

On average, budget travelers spend $99 (AU$157) per day, mid-range travelers spend $233 (AU$371) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $497 (AU$790) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Fraser Island.

Within the Pacific, which is known to be an expensive region, Fraser Island is a very expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in the Pacific for its travel costs. There are only a few cities as expensive as Fraser Island in the region, such as Rockhampton.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Fraser Island Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Fraser Island?

The average Fraser Island trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Fraser Island travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Fraser Island cost?

Fraser Island on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$42
(AU$68) 		$98
(AU$157) 		$193
(AU$309)
Local Transportation1 $34
(AU$55) 		$89
(AU$142) 		$239
(AU$382)
Food2 $34
(AU$54) 		$79
(AU$126) 		$157
(AU$251)
Entertainment1 $18
(AU$28) 		$43
(AU$68) 		$96
(AU$154)
Alcohol2 $4-13
(AU$7-20) 		$10-30
(AU$16-47) 		$20-60
(AU$32-95)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Fraser Island on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $99 that backpackers often get by on.

Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.

Is Your Travel Style Average?

As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Many visitors to Fraser Island are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $233 per person, per day.

Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?

If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $497 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the island will demand a higher price range.

Accommodation Budget in Fraser Island

In Fraser Island, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $159, but during peak season they jump to an average of $297. You can find budget options starting at $127 up to luxury rates at $394. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Fraser Island for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $195 (AU$313). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $98 (AU$157) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $98
    AU$157
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $195
    AU$313

Hotels in Fraser Island

Looking for a hotel in Fraser Island? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Fraser Island

The average hotel room price in Fraser Island based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $159 in the low season and $297 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a great destination for families, and if you're traveling with kids, an apartment with extra space might be ideal.

Many visitors to Fraser Island stay for a week, and if you're staying for an extended period, a vacation rental with a kitchen could help you prepare your own meals.

By skipping summer and traveling during the low or shoulder season, you'll enjoy lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Fraser Island

In Fraser Island, the public transit system is not very good. The roads are sand and you'll need a vehicle of your own to get around. Because of the conditions, it requires four wheel drive.

Regrettably, the walkable areas in the island are quite limited. The island is large enough that you'll likely want a vehicle (four wheel drive) to get around and fully experience it.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (poor)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (moderate)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $89 (AU$142) per person, per day, on local transportation in Fraser Island. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Fraser Island is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $89
    AU$142

By plane, Hervey Bay Airport (just on the mainland in the beachside city of Hervey Bay) is the primary gateway to Fraser Island. It is sometimes called the Fraser Coast airport.

Driving vehicle access to Fraser Island is by ferry only. Four-wheel drive vehicles are necessary for transport around the island. Travelers have the option of bringing or hiring their own 4WD vehicle, joining a group from a Hervey Bay hostel, or taking a 4WD tour bus.

Transportation Tips

If you're driving, it's essential to check if your hotel offers convenient parking.



Flights to Fraser Island
How much does it cost to go to Fraser Island? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Fraser Island
The price of renting a car in Fraser Island will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Fraser Island

Dining options in Fraser Island are quite limited and of mediocre quality. It's better not to waste too much money on meals when there are more valuable experiences to invest in. There are settlements on the island where you can pick up food and essentials, but don't expect much more than the basics. There are also several restaurants.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Fraser Island can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Fraser Island is $79 (AU$126) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $79
    AU$126

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Fraser Island is around $79 (AU$126) per person, with previous travelers spending from $34 to $158. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Fraser Island are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $8 to $24
  • Lunch: $12 to $32
  • Dinner: $24 to $56
  • Coffee: $6
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $12

In Hervey Bay, there are a number of restaurants and take-away places situated in town and along the Esplanade. Like any tourist destination, the town will have dining available for all tastes and budgets with International flavors including things like Thai, Italian, Chinese, and Mexican. As a seaside location, there are also a number of restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood. Options from the sea are available from fine dining entrees to fast food like fish and chips. As far as iconic Australian foods go, Vegemite is a vitamin-rich, somewhat bitter yeast spread which is often thinly spread on buttered toast. Other unique items include a kind of chocolate biscuit called Tim Tams, fairy bread which is basically white bread buttered with sprinkles, a chocolate covered sponge cake called lamington, and macadamia nuts.

Food & Dining Tips

When you're on the road with kids, look for eateries that have a kids' menu. This can lead to considerable savings, as those meals are generally less expensive. Some restaurants might not highlight their kids' options, so don't hesitate to ask the waiter before you order.

Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.

Enjoy the scenery while saving money by planning a picnic. Find a nearby grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and choose a lovely park or picturesque spot for your meal.

Bring a water bottle instead of buying beverages everywhere. It helps the environment, too.

While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Fraser Island

The reason people visit Fraser Island is clear, as it offers beaches, romance, hiking, and family-friendly activities.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Fraser Island typically cost an average of $43 (AU$68) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $43
    AU$68

The freshwater lakes are a major attraction for visitors coming to Fraser Island. Lake MacKenzie with its calm crystal blue waters and white sands is especially popular, and usually draws a crowd midday during peak season. Near the lake there is also a pleasant walking trail along Wanggoolba Creek. Lake Wabby is green-colored lake inhabited by freshwater turtles and catfish, and is another common place for swimming, just a 30 minute walk from the beach.

The beach itself is also a prime location for swimming, beachside activities, and experiencing some of its many unique features. The Champagne Pools, for example, are rock pools named for their froth that provide a safe place to bathe in the seawater. Eli Creek, also along the main beach, is a freshwater current where visitors can float or walk along its boardwalk. And then there is the Maheno shipwreck a retired passenger steamer that was blown ashore in 1935 and was even used for target practice by Australian Airforce during World War II.

As far as views go, one of the best is Indian Head, a rocky outcrop at the northern end of the main beach. Visitors climb to the top for a panoramic overlook of the beach and the ocean, sometimes spotting sharks, rays, turtles, and dolphins down below. The Pinnacles or Cathedrals are also very scenic, exhibiting ribbons of colorful sandstone in its cliffs.



The best way to experience Fraser Island is to camp on the beach or at one of the inlet campgrounds and hire a 4WD for the visit. This method allows visitors to explore at their leisure. Other activities on the island include swimming along the beach, lakes, freshwaters pools, and creeks, wandering the boardwalks and nature trails, wildlife watching, eco tours, scuba, and snorkeling.

Activities from Hervey Bay consist of nature and wildlife tours, fishing charter and tours, dolphin and whale watching, eco tours, watersports like waterski and jet ski, parasailing and paragliding, horseback riding tours, and air tours, amongst others.

Sightseeing Tips

Beaches:
Beaches in Fraser IslandMany visitors come to Fraser Island to relax at the beach. The idyllic beaches really are paradise. The water is blue, the sand white, and the rainforest feels undiscovered. The most famous beach is Seventy-Five Mile Beach, but other beautiful spots include Eli Creek, Lake Wabby, and the Champagne Pools (the only oceanfront spot where you can swim).

Hiking:
Hiking in Fraser IslandDon't miss out on the wonderful hiking opportunities around Fraser Island. There are many stunning hikes on the island and many visitors choose to camp during their visit. It's possible to organize a group hike with a guide as well, which is recommended as it is the safer option.

A nice way to explore destinations in Fraser Island is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • 2 Hours Hervey Bay Funset Cruise for $51 details
  • Hervey Bay: Half Day Whale watching & Island Stop Tour for $106 details
  • Remote K'gari (Fraser Island) & Whale Experience for $166 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Fraser Island

The nightlife in Fraser Island is generally non-existant. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $20 (AU$32) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Fraser Island per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $20
    AU$32
Nightlife Tips

Sure, nightlife is part of the adventure, but cutting down on cocktails can make a surprising difference in your travel budget.



Travel cost data last updated: Feb 26, 2025

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Fraser Island

  • The peak season of summer typically means higher prices and more tourists. For those looking to save money and enjoy a more peaceful experience, the shoulder or low seasons are ideal.
  • Traveling at a more relaxed pace can help you save money, giving you a chance to appreciate the stunning surroundings while you unwind. Packing your days with too many activities often leads to higher expenses. On the other hand, slowing down can lead to lower costs and a more enjoyable experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • With limited public transportation in Fraser Island, it could be wise to rent a car or arrange for transportation, such as a tour. Just keep in mind that this might affect your budget in other areas.
  • Fraser Island isn't a hotspot for hostels, so if you're planning on staying in a budget dorm, you may want to readjust your travel plans. A cheap hotel or an apartment rental could be a more suitable option.
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Traveling in Fraser Island
Fraser Island Fraser Island

Fraser Island, located off Australia's eastern Queensland coast, is the world's largest sand island. It is best known as a camping and ecotourism destination, with a number of panoramic viewpoints, beaches, lakes, and freshwater pools. Hervey Bay, a beachside city on the nearby mainland, is a primary gateway to the island.



Neighborhoods & Around

Hervey Bay, located on the mainland, is the hub of civilization for the Fraser Island area. It is best known as a gateway to Fraser Island and the southern Great Barrier Reef, and is also a popular whale watching destination. Whale season starts late July and goes through to early November with Antarctic humpback whale being the migratory species often sighted.

Hervey Bay is actually a few seaside towns merged along the bay rather than a single town. These smaller towns consist of Urangan, Torquay, Scarness, Pialba, and Point Vernon, each with its own shopping centers and recreational hubs. The Esplanade is a 14 kilometer-long pathway that stretches from the Urangan Harbour at the eastern end of the city to Gatakers Bay in the west. It is a primary stretch for experiencing beaches, ocean views, parks, playgrounds, botanic gardens, piers, swimming, boating, fishing, marine life, shopping, dining, and aboriginal heritage. Other Hervey Bay attractions include a water park, a historical village and museum, aquarium, and more.

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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